"They dispersed when a helicopter came and was flashing lights. That's what eventually got rid them."

A large branch Halfords a few hundred metres from Brixton High St was also targeted overnight and has now been sealed off.

Andy Noble, manager of Currys, said he did not yet know the extent of the damage as it had been designated a crime scene and he had to wait for forensic officers to arrive before he could enter the premises.

"They definitely got in and made off with quite a bit from what I can see," he said.

"It's covered by insurance but it's just frustrating that this was probably done by local people. This is a local business, it's locals who work here and locals who are now affected."

The overwhelming feeling in Brixton is disappointment. Many locals are frustrated that a community which had come so far in terms of reputation has been set back by the actions of a few.

Jar Sharp, 34, has lived in Brixton for 31 years. He said: "It's just totally shocking. I was here when it kicked off during the riots of the 80s,

I didn't think it would happen again here.

"I thought Brixton had recovered and the community had settled down.

"Whoever did this has let Brixton down."

But there was one ray of sunshine this morning. Employees from local business Ms Cupcake are handing out free cakes to angry locals on the High St.

Themanager, who did not want to be named, said: "We are spreading love in Brixton today. My staff came in and I said: 'we're not selling today, we're giving them out for free'. This is our local community, this is where we live. "There are so many independent businesses here. I don't want Brixton to get a bad reputation so I'm just doing my bit."